Winter brings a unique set of conditions to the roads in New York City. As temperatures drop, roads become slick with ice and snow, leading to an increase in car accidents during this time of year. In fact, data from the Federal Highway Administration shows that there are more than 150,000 car accidents each year from icy roads alone, accounting for at least two times the number of accidents at other times of year. In this article, personal injury attorneys Glenn and Robin Herman discuss the risks of winter car accidents and how to avoid them.
Why Are There More Car Accidents in Winter Months?
Winter Rain, Snow, and Sleet
Anyone who has ever driven their car during an icy winter knows that braking is much more difficult when the roads are icy. In fact, ice on the roads can increase the required stopping distance by more than ten times, meaning that drivers must keep significantly more distance between themselves and the vehicle in front of them.
Lack of Vehicle Maintenance
Due to the increased stopping distances required in icy weather, it becomes even more important to ensure that your car is well-maintained so that the brakes are working smoothly, so a lapse in maintenance can have disastrous consequences. Furthermore, long stretches of cold weather can have adverse effects on the performance of a car's engine and battery, putting drivers at further risk of accidents due to issues with their car.
Lack of Experience
Though lack of experience driving in winter weather is certainly less of an issue in New York than it is in other states, new drivers and people who have moved from out of state may still struggle to drive on winter roads due to lack of experience, as driving on snowy and icy roads requires a skill set that is difficult to practice in other conditions.
Tips for Avoiding Winter Car Accidents
The best way to avoid a winter car accident is to practice safe driving at all times. Here are some tips:
Always check the forecast before you get in your car and leave extra time for travel if there is hazardous weather in the area.
Make sure that your vehicle is well-maintained, with properly inflated tires, working brakes, and functioning windshield wipers.
Drive slowly when the roads are icy and wet, allowing more time for stopping.
Avoid distractions such as texting or talking on the phone while driving in hazardous weather conditions.
Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate any potential dangers ahead.
Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If you do find yourself in an accident, protect your rights and seek out professional legal help.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you stay safe on the roads this winter and avoid becoming a statistic in a New York City car accident. However, other drivers' negligence may lead you to be involved in a winter car accident no matter how carefully you drive. In this instance, it is important to seek legal counsel from an attorney with experience handling winter car accident personal injury cases in New York.
About Manhattan Car Accident Attorneys Glenn & Robin Herman
Our Manhattan car accident attorneys take the time to learn every aspect of your case during our initial meeting in order to properly evaluate the full extent of the damages you or a loved one have suffered. We have been representing seriously injured New Yorkers for over 30 years. Born, raised, and living in the City, we know that when you have been injured in this town, you need an attorney to protect your rights and explain the law to you in a way you can understand.
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We represent clients in all five boroughs of New York (NY): Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, along with Suffolk County & Nassau County on Long Island, Westchester County, Rockland County, and throughout the entire state of New York.
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